Texas Lawmakers Push Tesla To Pause Self-driving Taxi Launch

AUSTIN, Texas - You might have to wait a little bit longer to catch a self-driving taxi cab in Texas, folks. Texas Lawmakers have urged Tesla to postpone putting robotaxis on the street this month until they can prove compliance with autonomous vehicle regulations.

New revisions in the state's 2017 autonomous vehicle operations framework state that prior authorization from the DMV is necessary before putting a driverless vehicle out on the road.

Rules For Self-Driving Vehicle Compliance

For an autonomous vehicle to be on the road legally, the operator has to demonstrate that the vehicle is capable of operating in compliance with state traffic laws, is equipped with a recording device, and is compliant with federal law, which includes federal motor vehicle safety standards, and is capable of minimal risk if the car is rendered inoperable, AND the vehicle must also be registered, titled, and insured. Plus, the vehicle operator must also submit a First Responder Interaction Plan to the DPS that explains how responders should interact with the vehicle, how to communicate with fleet support for vehicle towing and removal from the roadway, and any extra information about hazardous driving conditions or public safety risks.

My Two Cents

I think I'm going to give it a couple of years before I take a ride in a self-driving cab. Thinking about all of the things that could go wrong gives me just about as much anxiety as getting into the car with a drunk driver. No, thanks. You guys can work all the kinks out first...

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